“The prime minister spoke to Kanubhaiji in Gujarati and both had a cheerful conversation where they refreshed some memories from the past,” said Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday had a long telephonic conversation with Kanubhai Gandhi, grandson of Mahatama Gandhi, who is living in an old-age home in the national capital.

“The prime minister spoke to Kanubhaiji in Gujarati and both had a cheerful conversation where they refreshed some memories from the past,” said Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma, who was directed by Modi to visit the old age home and submit a report on the expectations and requirements of Kanubhai.

I am very happy. Mahesh Sharma came to meet me and I spoke to the PM on phone. I am an old fan of Modi. He still remembers how I have helped him in past,” said Kanubhai after talking to the prime minister on phone.

Kanubhai left India at the age of 17 and studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology after which he worked at NASA’s Langley Research Centre. His wife, a doctorate in biochemistry, too held a job in the US.

Having returned from the US in 2014, Kanubhai has since been living in ashrams and old-age homes. He, and his wife, Shiva Lakshmi, are currently at the Guru Vishram Vridh Ashram in Gautampuri in South Delhi.